The synthesis report informs future European environmental policy in general and its implementation between 2015 and 2020 in particular. It includes a reflection on the European environment in a global context, as well as chapters summarising the state of, trends in, and prospects for the environment in Europe.

The global megatrends report assesses 11 global megatrends (GMT) of importance for Europe’s environment in the long term. In assessing key drivers, trends and implications for Europe, it aims to provide an improved basis for strategic European environmental policymaking.

Country briefings provide an overview of state of the environment across 39 European countries, based on national state of environment reports. Regional briefings cover three regions, identified as priority areas in the EU's 7th Environmental Action Programme.